Redundancy News Jobs Cost of Living Consumer Rights

Raleigh bike workers face redundancy as iconic brand enters administration

The iconic Raleigh bike brand has entered administration after its Dutch owner, Accell Group, ran out of options to keep the business afloat. This is bad news for employees at the Nottingham headquarters — and potentially for anyone considering buying a Raleigh bike right now.

What’s happened?

Accell, which bought Raleigh for $100 million in 2012, announced this week it could no longer meet its financial obligations. The company has been struggling for years: Raleigh posted a loss of £30.1 million before tax in 2023, compared to £6.8 million the year before. The business already cut staff and moved premises in 2024 after a company review.

At its peak in the 1970s, Raleigh employed over 8,000 people at its Nottingham factory and made a million bikes a year. The Chopper — the distinctive bike with extended handlebars — became a cultural icon, loved by everyone from David Beckham to Lady Gaga.

What does this mean for workers?

If you work at Raleigh, you’re now facing potential redundancy. Here’s what you need to know:

You have legal rights. Your employer must give you proper notice and redundancy pay if you’ve been there for at least two years. Check your contract and employee handbook for details on notice periods.

Contact ACAS (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) — they offer free, impartial advice on redundancy and your rights. They can help you understand what you’re entitled to and answer questions about severance packages.

Register with the DWP as soon as you know you’re at risk of losing your job. You may qualify for Universal Credit or other benefits while you look for work.

Keep records of everything: your employment contract, payslips, and any communications about redundancy.

For customers: what about my bike?

If you own a Raleigh or are thinking of buying one, the administration process shouldn’t immediately affect existing products. However, warranty claims and after-sales support may become uncertain. Check your guarantee details and consider where you can get repairs if the brand closes.

The fate of Raleigh will now be decided by court-appointed administrators, who will look for potential buyers or decide how to wind down the business.